Definition
Published instrument approach procedure charts designed for use with Area Navigation (RNAV) systems, typically GPS or other approved navigation equipment. These charts depict approaches that allow an aircraft to fly a defined path to a runway using point-to-point navigation between waypoints, rather than tracking to or from ground-based navigation aids. RNAV approach charts include lines of minima for the various levels of navigation performance the aircraft is approved for, such as LPV, LNAV/VNAV, and LNAV.
Plain English
Approach charts built for aircraft that navigate by GPS waypoints. Instead of flying to a ground station, the pilot follows a path from one waypoint to the next down to the runway. Each chart shows different sets of minimum altitudes depending on what the aircraft's navigation system can do.
Context Anchor
Seen during instrument flight planning and cockpit setup for GPS/RNAV approaches to a runway.
Derivation
RNAV stands for Area Navigation. The term comes from the idea that the aircraft can navigate within an 'area' between any two points it chooses, rather than being forced to fly directly to or from a ground-based navigation aid.
Why Pilots Care
These charts enable approaches at airports without traditional ILS or VOR equipment, increasing access to more runways in low visibility.
Intuition Check
Do not read “instrument approach chart” as a general map of the airport. Here it means a specific published procedure chart for flying toward a runway by instruments, with exact paths, altitudes, and limits.
Example Sentence 1
Before starting the descent, the pilot briefed the RNAV instrument approach chart and confirmed the LNAV minimums applied to their aircraft.
Example Sentence 2
RNAV Instrument Approach Charts allow for curved paths and multiple waypoints not possible on older ground-based approach charts.